beyond the net - RAN TAKAHASHI.

014. the city of love

₊˚ . 🌱 ₊˚ ⌗﹒ﾟ.

── .✦ AS ALEXIS LEFT, disappearing into the back of the sleek black car that would take her to alessandro's hotel, yn turned back to ran, her eyes soft with gratitude. she watched the car's taillights fade into the distance before meeting his gaze.

"thank you for making sure she got to him safely." yn said, her voice gentle but filled with sincerity. ran's expression softened, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "you care about her, so i care about her too. she's a special girl, yn. i see how much she adores you. she's lucky to have someone like you in her life."

yn's heart fluttered at his words. the past few days had been an emotional whirlwind, but in this quiet moment, she felt a sense of calm wash over her. ran's presence was comforting, a steady force amidst all the chaos. she took a small step closer to him, feeling the warmth radiate from his body as she did.

"i'm lucky to have her too," yn replied, her voice just above a whisper. "and... i'm lucky to have you."

ran's smile widened as he reached out, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. his touch was gentle, almost reverent, and yn felt her breath hitch at the tenderness in his gaze.

they stood like that for a moment, the world around them fading into the background. it was as if they were in their own little bubble, insulated from everything else. yn's heart beat a little faster, a mixture of nerves and excitement bubbling up inside her. ran's eyes were intense, yet filled with a warmth that made her feel safe.

"looks like you're stuck with me tonight." ran teased, breaking the silence, though his tone was light and affectionate. yn let out a soft laugh, her cheeks flushing slightly. "i think i can handle that."

ran's smile turned into a grin, and he leaned in a little closer, his voice dropping to a more serious, yet still playful tone. "actually, i want to take you somewhere. will you come with me?"

there was a spark of excitement in his eyes, and yn couldn't help but feel her curiosity piqued. she nodded, a small smile tugging at her lips. "of course."

ran's eyes brightened, and he turned to quickly say his goodbyes to his teammates, who were still lingering in the area, celebrating their victory. he exchanged a few words with yuki, who gave him a knowing smile and a pat on the back. the rest of the team called out their farewells as ran and yn made their way out of the arena.

as they stepped outside, the cool night air greeted them, a gentle breeze rustling through the trees. ran walked beside yn, his hand brushing against hers as they headed towards a waiting car. It was a small, intimate gesture, but it sent a thrill through her all the same.